Hello...I have a 1996 Rogue 5-string that I want to sell. I put it up on Craigslist in the SF Bay area at a price of $1,700 and was told by a couple of people that my asking price was too low...also got some guys in Russia who wanted to buy it on the spot... I've had a difficult time determining the value of this instrument. It's in great playing condition, however there is some buckle rash and a small ding here and there...can anyone give me some advice here, or steer me in a direction? Your help is much appreciated...

I'm no Rogue expert, but I'd guess that's too low as well. I just did a search in the Swap Shop section and the most recent entry is from around 2008. In 2006 there was a post with a reasonable asking price reference of $2500, but I didn't check to see if it was a 4 or 5-string. It's no secret that Alembics hold their values about as well as a new Ford pickup (has absolutely nothing to do with quality - well maybe the Ford), but if it was $2500 then, it's probably the same or more now. Demand drives the price. You're only going to get what someone else is willing to pay for it, but if you're getting immediate offers (from anyone) step back and re-evaluate. If nothing else, start high and step it down in small increments. My two cents.

I haven't watched eBay/craigslist too closely lately, but I would think $2000-$2800 depending on condition for a Rogue 5. Yours looks to have a very nice grain on the top wood, which might command a few extra bucks as well.

FWIW, I think $1700 is low for one of these, but I'm getting the impression that the market has changed for these.

From what I remember, up until I picked up mine early last year, Rogue's were rare on the used market, and were tough to touch for under 3k. I got mine for less than that, and thought it was a great deal.

Two were up for sale on Talkbass at the end of last year. One went for $2700 on ebay, the other was $1900.

So, who knows what they're going for now. Based on what I've seen lately, including the post above, I'd guess you could probably price it around $2000, and see what happens. Heck, post it for $2500, and see what happens. If you get no interest, drop the price.

Used instrument value varies both geographically and chronologically. Craigslist can tell you what their readership in your area will pay for it, i.e., list it at your ideal price and see if you get any real responses. If not, drop the price and try it again, repeat until you get response. My experience with Craigslist is that you'll tend to net something at the (very) low end of the market.